Nobody doubts the potential of their talented, exciting back-line - although their resources in that department will be severely strained by Wales' World Cup calls.

Their problems last year were all in the forwards, and specifically the front five.

An inexperienced tight five were bullied by the major teams, the nadir being reached with a humiliating 75-25 Heineken Cup loss in Biarritz.

Coach Dai Young has moved to address the weaknesses by recruiting Welsh internationals Craig Quinnell, Andy Moore and Ben Evans.

One to watch: Jon Vaughton

They certainly have the experience and strength of competing at the highest level, but they will need to back it up with the right attitude, a hunger to push themselves to the hilt.

Another summer signing, hooker Gareth Williams, should add definite dynamism to the front row, while the back row - with Dan Baugh pledging himself to Cardiff throughout the World Cup - looks an aggressive unit, capable of putting the Blues on the front foot.